Venice Castle

Buzzing with energy and playfulness is the delightful homestay of Mr. and Mrs. Matthews, Venice Castle. The thing that strikes you about the home, save its lush green yards and soothing interiors, is that it exudes a kid-friendly atmosphere. There are swings and slides planted in the yard, and plenty of toys to go around. A perfect playmate awaits the guests at the Venice Castle, the Matthews’ four-year old son, Joseph.

The Matthews recently returned from Saudi Arabia and delved into the hospitality industry by starting this homestay, two years ago. The home is newly constructed and finely blends traditional architecture with modern amenities. All the 4 guest rooms are spacious and airy. And the two big balconies afford guests a beautiful view of the starry sky and green landscapes. The home is sheltered from the bustling city by location as well as a fence of tall trees. The couple also owns heavenly houseboats, where exotic delicacies are served to guests. A stay on these traditional Kettuvallams is the perfect complement to one’s stay in the home, and also saves people the trouble of dealing with middlemen. Mrs. Bina Matthews is the talent behind the homestay’s sumptuous meals. Her specialities are sea food and traditional Keralite dishes, which have been known to break the most ardent of diets.

The beach is just a short drive away while parks and reputed Ayurveda massage centres are all around. The home is less than 1 km from the boat jetty and well-connected, by public transport, to all major parts of Kerala. Venice Castle has been approved by KTDC and Mr. Matthews can organise local tours for visitors. With utmost convenience, lavish dinners, and personalised service, the Venice Castle is sure to make anyone feel like royalty.

• Fishing, open-air dining, bird watching
• Cruises on canoes and houseboats
• Visit to bird sanctuary
• Cooking lessons
• Ayurvedic massages can be arranged
• In-house cooking lessons and demonstrations, on request.
• Shopping for indigenous arts and crafts
• Tours to Durgadevi temple, Nagaraj temple, Krishnapuram palace, Marari beach, Arthunkal church
• Cultural dance programmes
• Tours to learn about coir industry

• 4 air-conditioned rooms with TV
• Ensuite bathrooms with hot and cold running water, European W/Cs
• 2 large balconies
• 4 indoor communal areas along with a porch
• Internet
• Reading material
• Transfers from airport and railway station on request
• Laundry
• Power Back-up
• On-call private cabs
• Mosquito-repellents in rooms
• 10-minute drive to Alleppey beach
• Easy access to Ayurveda massage parlours, beauty salons, parks, yoga and meditation centres
• Railway – 3.5 kms, bus station – 1km
• Cochin – 65 kms